Description

"a widely accessible product that not only captures the essence of its predecessors, but infuses them with a whole new multiplayer dynamic." - CVG.com

Please note: Online multiplayer support for this game is provided by GameSpy and they are deactivating these services. This change will not affect the single-player campaign or any additional Origin features. For more details, please read EA’s online service updates page.

Command and Conquer: Red Alert 3 from EA brings back the fan-favorite real-time strategy game in its latest incarnation with new features, powers, technologies, and a different world. Now, you can play not just by yourself but also cooperatively with a friend as you take on the enemy in this glorious, over-the-top romp.

Intriguing Plot Twists

In previous games, the war between the Allies and Soviets was coming to a close with the Allies nearing victory. In desperation, the Soviets created a time-travel device that they've used to assassinate Albert Einstein before he is able to develop the weapon technology the Allies later use to defeat the Soviets. Upon returning, they notice a new world, and there is a world war taking place between three groups for control of the world.

Customer reviews

85

Not as good as its prequel

Red Alert has always been one of my favourite real time strategy series out there – from the iconic music to the rather camp acting displayed in the cutscenes. It’s a series that takes itself less than seriously.

And that’s where the problem lies with Red Alert 3 – somewhere along the line it became less camp, and just lame and admittedly unfunny. It’s unfortunate that there was such a long gap between Red Alert 2 and this game. Developers have since changed hands, and the cast is different. There are several once well known actors who pop up and cameo appearances. Where they were virtual unknowns in the previous games who could actually act worth a damn, these so called actors on board here just plain don’t want to be involved. That much is obvious.

This game is supposed to look better than the originals, but somehow I prefer the charm of something like Red Alert 2 what with its 2D isometric view and sprites. This game uses an aging engine – which has come all the way from Emperor: Battle for Dune and Command & Conquer Generals, and I have to say, I’ve never been a massive fan of this particular iteration of this engine. The water effects are decent though.

The one thing I think Red Alert 3 does better than any of the previous games in the series in naval warfare. It was very limited in scope, perhaps due to engine limitations in years past, but there are some proper battles out at sea to be had here. That and you have a new faction, the Japanese, to play as, so that keeps things interesting for a while.

78

Retro Redux

You will build bases around resource clusters and attempt to dislodge enemies from theirs. The designers didn't tinker much with the age-old formula but they do it expertly. Not only are the three factions well-balanced, but the play style of each is satisfyingly unique and don't feel like simple palette swaps. The addition of the Empire faction in particular was refreshing for the series. The campaign won't win awards for storytelling, but it serves its purpose. Most campaign battles start as set piece challenges where you learn how to effectively use/counteract a particular unit or faction strength. There are a few duds but overall they present a good exercise and are decently paced. Best of all, you can also play co-op, which is actually kind of awesome.

Graphics and soundtrack: Red Alert 1 and 2 were a bit more tasteful and less cartoonish, but Red Alert 3's style lends itself well to the humor and general feel of not taking itself too seriously. The retro art and even play style of each faction liberally mock pop culture tropes from the cold war era with a bit of bladerunner and robotech mixed in.

80

RTS Gem.

It's been ages since we got an awesome RTS. This game is old, the graphics may seem dated by today's standards, but the gameplay is solid.

There are 3 full-length faction campaigns to choose from, and each just gets better and better. One of my favorite things from the C&C Red Alert series would be the girls. Yes, the ones from the cut scenes. They do a great job motivating you to win the war, both acting-wise and hotness-wise even when some parts can be corny.

Graphics are dated in 2013 standards, and is more cartoonish compared to Red Alert 2. I have no problem with that, it fits with the story and works well with the gameplay. Who plays an RTS game for awesome graphics anyway? That's not something you should expect from a 5 year old RTS.

The campaign is very fun. Even though I don't remember much about the story, I remember the plot twists and the creative liberty the developer has taken with the units.

The game is solid, it's cheap now ($10!) and if you can get it with a friend. The coop is VERY fun.